The documentary “Elton John: Never Too Late” shared music icon Elton John’s insights into his remarkable life and career at its premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. Directed by R.J. Cutler and David Furnish, the film provides an intimate look at John’s journey over five decades through archival footage and interviews.
The documentary contrasts John’s rise to fame in the 1970s with his final concert tour concluding in 2022. It details how John found immense success on stage but struggled personally. At a post-screening discussion, the 77-year-old artist said fame without honesty quickly led him into “real trouble,” like when battling addiction before getting sober in 1990.
John credits his 34 years of sobriety with transforming his life. He said his family, including husband Furnish and their two sons, bring him his greatest pride and fulfillment. “Having a family means more to me than any music success,” John remarked.
The film explores John publicly coming out as gay in 1976, which he said began his journey of self-acceptance. “Not being honest for so long made me so unhappy,” John reflected. “My life changed when I stopped lying to myself.”
While ending touring, John assured fans he will keep making music. But he said family now comes before all else. “I don’t want my tombstone to just say I sold records,” John stated. “I want it to say I was a great dad and husband.”
The documentary is set for limited theater release on November 15 before streaming on Disney+. It offers an unprecedented look at one of music’s most enduring icons, both as an artist and a man who found meaning through honesty and loved ones.
